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  • ABT 2012 Audi Q3

    ABT has created a special tuning package for the new 2012 Audi Q3. The small crossover received both styling and performance packages.

    The aerodynamics kit includes new front bumper, new front grille, door strip attachments, rear diffuser housing exhaust tailpipes and a rear wing.

    There are also a set of lowering sport springs and a number of CR and DR design light alloys in dimensions between 18” and 20”. The sets are available with low profile sport tires.

    The performance upgrades includes ECU re-map for the 2.0 liter TSI, which is boosted to 250PS (184 kW), instead of the stock 211PS (155 kW). The 170PS version now delivers 210PS (154 kW). The 2.0 liter TDI with 140PS is bumped up to 170PS and the more powerful 177PS version now boasts 195PS.

    Check out the specifications, below!

    ABT 2012 Audi Q3 Front
    ABT 2012 Audi Q3 Front



    ABT 2012 Audi Q3 Specifications:

    • ABT ENGINE TECHNOLOGYEngine:                2.0 TDI, 1.968 ccm capacity
      Performance tuning:            ABT POWER
      Performance:                170 HP/125 kW (standard: 140 HP/103 kW)
    • ABT ENGINE TECHNOLOGYEngine:                2.0 TDI, 1.968 ccm capacity
      Performance tuning:            ABT POWER
      Performance:                195 HP/143 kW (standard: 177 HP/130 kW)
    • ABT ENGINE TECHNOLOGYEngine:                2.0 TSI, 1.984 ccm capacity
      Performance tuning:            ABT POWER
      Performance:                210 HP/154 kW (standard: 170 HP/125 kW)
    • ABT ENGINE TECHNOLOGYEngine:                2.0 TSI, 1.984 ccm capacityPerformance tuning:            ABT POWER
      Performance:                250 HP/184 kW (standard: 211 HP/155 kW)
    • ABT AERODYNAMICSABT front grillABT front skirt
      ABT door strip attachments
      ABT rear skirt set with exhaust inserts
      ABT rear wing
    • ABT SUSPENSIONABT suspension springs
    • ABT WHEEL TECHNOLOGYABT CR and DR designer light alloy wheels in 18 to 20 inch
      Available also as complete set of wheels with sports tyres
  • Electric Supercars at 2011 EcoVelocity

    Several green super cars will take place at the 2011 Eco Velocity show hosted in the grounds of Battersea Power Station. As you may suggest, all Eco-cars are slow and ugly, but not these.

    The line-up includes the Bluebird Electric, fresh from its British Electric Land Speed Record attempt in South Wales as well as the Tesla Roadster, the first highway capable electric car in serial production.

    Other interesting vehicles are The Delta Motorsport E-4 Coupe with whopping range of 200 miles (more than 320 km) on a single charge. There will be also the superfast Evelio – 0 to 60 mph in 3.2 seconds; The Lightning GT which produces 700 HP; The Nemisis Electric Sports Car and Westfield Sport E – 0 to 100 km/h in 7 seconds.

    “The addition of the green supercar paddock might well be a little bit unexpected for some visitors and will definitely grab a lot of attention, but that is the whole point, changing perceptions.”, commented Giles Brown, EcoVelocity Event Director.

    “We are here to educate people about eco friendly motoring which is evolving all the time.”, he added.

    EcoVelocity will run from September 8-11th at the Battersea Power Station.

    Nemisis Electric Sports Car Side
    Nemisis Electric Sports Car Side

    Source: EcoVelocity

  • 2012 Wald Mercedes-Benz CLS Black Bison

    2012 Mercedes CLS Black Bison received unique tuning package from Wald International. The car is just staggering and we can’t wait to see it in action.

    The exterior is finished in black and boasts complete aerodynamics package consisting of a new front bumper, a new rear bumper and a pair of side skirts. There are also daytime running LED lights, new front fenders and a new boot lid spoiler.

    The wheels are finished in matte black to complete the aggressive vision.

    CLS Black Bison is based on CLS 63 AMG, so it comes with the new 5.5 liter V8 Bi-turbo engine delivering 525PS (386 kW) and 700Nm (516 lb-ft). 0 to 100 km/h in 4.4 seconds and top speed of 250 km/h (155 mph). However, the engine can be boosted with the AMG Performance package, which adds another 33PS (24 kW) and 100Nm (84 lb-ft). The top speed is 299 km/h (186 mph).

    2012 Wald Mercedes-Benz CLS Black Bison Front Side
    2012 Wald Mercedes-Benz CLS Black Bison Front Side

    Source: Wald International

  • Subaru XV [teaser]

    Subaru XV European specification will actually go in production. The vehicle will be exhibited at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show, September 13 – 25.

    Until then, the manufacturer has released a teaser image, where we can see the headlight, a part from the front bonnet and front grille. The Subaru XV defines a whole new generation of Subaru crossover vehicle.

    The final production version of the XV remains true to the Concept and Subaru is confident that it will bring something fresh, as well as a new level of engineering excellence, to the segment.

    Subaru also expects the XV will bring a new type of customer to the Brand, people who are confident in the knowledge of the company’s AWD and engineering expertise and who are also looking for the flexibility and lifestyle statement that owning a crossover brings.

    The Subaru XV is set to hit the market in the UK in the beginning of 2012.

    Subaru XV teaser Headlight
    Subaru XV teaser Headlight

    Source: Subaru

  • MRS Porsche GT3

    Molitor Racing Systems has introduced their performance package for Porsche GT3 R. The race car will take place at the ADAC GT Masters, at Red Bull Ring, coming weekend.

    Two former MRS pilots, Norbert Siedler and Christian Engelhart, will be driving the stunning vehicle. They will be pushing the envelope and fight for their place on the podium, during both runs on Saturday and Sunday.

    The race car is completely wrapped in matt blue foil, which doesn’t differ from paintwork, even at a closer look. It also comes with highly tuned engine, Michelin slick tires fitted on ultra-light alloy wheels, a huge rear spoiler and a roll-cage for further stiffness and safety.

    MRS Porsche GT3 FrontSide
    MRS Porsche GT3 FrontSide



    Source: Molitor Racing Systems

  • 2012 Suzuki Swift Sport ahead of Frankfurt Motor Show

    2012 Suzuki Swift Sport will be exhibited at this year’s Frankfurt Motor Show in September.

    The small hatchback is powered by a 1.6 liter M16A engine developed exclusively for the Swift Sport. It is mated to a 6-speed manual gearbox boasting nice performance that is both exciting and environmentally responsible. The four-cylinder delivers 136 PS (100 kW) and 160Nm (118 lb-ft).

    The new Swift Sport offers superior cornering stability and brisker, more responsive handling thanks to struts with internal rebound springs and an exclusive rear-suspension design.

    High levels of safety are assured by features such as a light, stiff, impact-absorbing body, 7 airbags including curtain airbags and a driver’s knee airbag; and ESP (Electronic Stability Program).

    The new Swift Sport will hit the market later this year. Stay tuned for more information and price list.

    Check out the specification, below!

    2012 Suzuki Swift Sport FrontSide
    2012 Suzuki Swift Sport FrontSide

    2012 Suzuki Swift Sport Specification:

    • Overall length 3,890mm
    • Overall width 1,695mm
    • Overall height 1,510mm
    • Wheelbase 2,430mm
    • Treads Front 1,470mm
    • Rear 1,475mm
    • Piston displacement 1,586cm³
    • Maximum output 100kw/6,900rpm *²
    • Maximum torque 160N-m/4,400rpm *²

    *¹ The show will be open to the press on 13 and 14 September. It will be open to the general public from 15 to 25 September. The Suzuki stand will be located in hall 3.1, stand no A07.

    *² The data is provisional pending the results of homologation procedures.

    Source: Suzuki

  • OZ wheels

    How important is your car to you? I am pretty sure there are thousands of people’s girlfriends around the world like mine claiming you love your car more than you love her.

    There is a huge chance you might be going to bed with the set instead of your wife/girlfriend.

    OZ wheels were first manufactured in 1971 by Silvano Oselladore and Pietro Zen.  The company itself was actually established 7 years later with some external financing.

    The actual rise of the company started in 1992 when it moved to the new headquarters in San Martino di Lupari. So, we are 2011, meaning OZ is quite a young company, at the same time it is one of the most vigorously developing ones.  Since 1999 OZ have been manufacturing motorcycle wheels in collaboration with Aprillia, also car alloy wheels for Sparco. In 1982 OZ became the sole supplies to Lamborghini!

    OZ Superturismo GT Black
    OZ Superturismo GT Black

    Just 12 years after the company was created, in 1990 OZ won a title in WRC put on Carlos Sainz’s Toyota. Furthermore, in 1996 Damon Hill and his team Williams became F1 champions using OZ wheels.  OZ wheels nowadays can be found in DTM series,  GP3, IndyCar, WRC and so on and so on.

    So what pushed the brand to the top? On the first place it is the quality – the most titled wheel brand needs to create products to last – the TUV certificate and the wins come to prove this pretty much every day. Being an Italian manufacturer, it is somehow natural OZ makes some of the most beautiful alloys.

    Still, if you have any doubts about OZ, keep in mind all alloys are Xray tested , impact tested and so and so on, so that you can be sure you have the best piece of quality fitted – No matter if you need just beautiful alloys for a daily driver, lightweight for your track toy, or vintage looking wheels for your Capri, OZ has something available!

    Keep rolling baby!

  • Audi Urban Concept

    Audi has published some renderings of the new Urban Concept car, which is based on the strict principles of lightweight construction, efficiency and reduction. The vehicle is 1+1-seat combining elements of a racing car, a roadster, a fun car and an urban car. We are not sure, if this will work, but it looks promising.

    Audi Urban Concept boasts LED lights, adjustable the steering wheel and pedals, sliding roof and enormous 21” alloy wheels.

    The technology in the Audi urban concept reflects the full capabilities of the brand, especially when it comes to ultra-lightweight construction. The cockpit consists of carbon fibre-reinforced polymer (CFRP), which integrates the undercarriage of both seats.

    Two e-Tron electric motors provide the propulsion – providing the ultra-light Audi urban concept with the ability to accelerate powerfully. A lithium-ion battery supplies the energy, so the car will be ideal for extended city tours.

    Stay tuned for more information about this interesting project!

    Audi Urban Concept Side
    Audi Urban Concept Side

    Source: Audi

  • 2012 BMW X3

    BMW extends the range of superbly successful Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) – X3. BMW X3 xDrive20i and the BMW X3 xDrive35d will join the line-up in the Autumn of 2011. Both engines boast BMW TwinPower Turbo technology and have a further optimised performance and fuel consumption.

    2012 BMW X3 Drive20i is powered by a 2.0 liter four-cylinder petrol engine with twin-scroll turbocharger, High Precision Injection direct petrol injection, Double-Vanos variable camshaft control and VALVETRONIC variable valve control. The result in numbers is 184PS (135 kW) at 4800RPM and 270Nm of torque at just … 1250RPM. Seriously, this 2.0 liter engine pulls way better than enormous V8. Furthermore, it is mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission, which provides ultimate shifting.

    2012 BMW X3 Rear
    2012 BMW X3 Rear

    The standard range of BMW EfficientDynamics technology includes, among other features, the Auto Start-Stop function, which automatically switches the engine off when the car is stationary at traffic lights or in congestion in order to avoid unnecessary fuel consumption when idling.

    The world’s sportiest six-cylinder diesel engine fitted in BMW X3 xDrive35d is also revised. The 3.0-litre six-cylinder in-line also features twin-scroll turbocharger. The power bumps to 313PS (230 kW) at 4400RPM and the maximum torque is 630Nm between 1500RPM and 2500RPM. The injection system features precision solenoid injectors and maximum pressure of 1 800 bar to guarantee particularly efficient and clean combustion. The BMW X3 xDrive35d comes equipped as standard with the 8-speed automatic transmission including Auto Start-Stop.

    2012 BMW X3 is the only model in the segment, which offers the option of a Head-Up Display and in-car internet access. It also boasts luggage compartment between 550 and 1 600 litres of space.

    So, what is the conclusion? The new X3 is not the best looking car, but it offers supreme extras and driving pleasure, especially with these engine masterpieces.

    2012 BMW X3 FrontSide
    2012 BMW X3 FrontSide

    Source: BMW

  • 2012 Ford F-150 Harley-Davidson

    Ford has announced the 2012 F-150 Harley-Davidson Edition. The pick-up truck comes with staggering 6.2 liter V8 engine, snakeskin leather interior accents, a new stylized bodyside graphic and a new wheel and premium paint color.

    “This is a great pairing of two icons of the open road: Ford and Harley-Davidson. Both brands appeal to truck owners and motorcycle enthusiasts alike,” said Marc Lapine, Ford F-150 marketing manager.

    “For 2012 we worked with Harley-Davidson to continue to push the styling envelope while still delivering the durability and power that F-150 is known for and that our collective customers expect. It perfectly captures both brands.”, he added.

    2012 Ford F-150 Harley-Davidson Edition is available two main colours – Tuxedo Black or White Platinum Tri-Coat. The vehicle also comes with a exterior graphics, huge 22” alloy wheels, darkened headlights and a six-bar grille.

    The interior boasts superb heated leather seats, snakeskin leather interior accents, a Harley-Davidson badge on the center console and 8” touch-screen GPS SAT NAV system.

    2012 Ford F-150 Harley Davidson Edition Interior
    2012 Ford F-150 Harley Davidson Edition Interior

    The massive 6.2 liter V8 engine produces 417PS (306 kW) and 588Nm (434 lb-ft). It is mated to a 6-speed  automatic gearbox. The power is put on the road through RWD or an optional four-wheel-drive.

    • SOHC valvetrain with roller-rocker shafts: The single overhead camshaft (SOHC) per cylinder head design results in a stiff valvetrain that allows optimized camshaft lift profiles and results in great low-speed torque. The roller-rocker shafts allow valve angles to be splayed, resulting in optimized intake and exhaust port layout for better breathing
    • Dual-equal variable cam timing: Intake and exhaust valve opening and closing events are phased at the same time to optimize fuel efficiency and performance throughout the engine speed range and throttle positions
    • Two spark plugs per cylinder: Due to the large bore size, two spark plugs per cylinder are used to more efficiently burn the fuel-air mixture in the combustion chamber, enabling better fuel economy and increased engine torque. The twin plugs also help the engine maintain a smooth, stable idle
    • Dual knock sensors: A knock sensor on each bank of cylinders of the V8 engine allows the spark timing of each cylinder to be individually optimized real-time, throughout the engine speed range. The engine learns the optimum timing via an adaptive algorithm
    2012 Ford F-150 Harley Davidson Edition Side
    2012 Ford F-150 Harley Davidson Edition Side

    2012 Ford Harley-Davidson F-150:

    • Power moonroof
    • Rear view camera
    • Second-row heated seats
    • Ambient lighting
    • Remote Start System
    • 110-volt power inverter
    • Power-adjustable performance pedals

    F-Series firsts:

    • 20″ wheels
    • 22″ wheels
    • Wet-on-wet paint
    • Superchargers
    • Badges as interior ornamentation
    • All-wheel drive
    • Power deployable running boards
    • High-gloss painted interior

    Source: Ford

  • 2012 Opel Insignia

    Opel has announced the new 2012 Insignia coming with best-in-class new 1.4 turbo ecoFLEX engine, new 2.0 turbo petrol, Start/Stop system and added value.

    The exterior remains the same, but the vehicle gets a new “Luxor” metallic paint and new alloy wheels. Still, the interior boasts “Indian Night” Nappa leather seats, new infotainment systems – Navi 600 and Navi 900 Europa, an improved front camera system with Forward Collision Alert system.

    The interesting updates are the two new engines – 1.4 liter turbo ecoFLEX with 140 PS (103 kW) and 200Nm (147 lb-ft) of torque, which replaces the old 1.8 liter unit. The powerplant is mated to a 6-speed manual gearbox. It manages to achieve 5.7 litres per 100km and CO2 emissions of 134 g/km. The performance is satisfying – 0 to 100 km/h in 10.9 seconds and a top speed of 205 km/h (128 mph).

    The powerful 2.0 liter turbocharged petrol develops 250PS (185 kW) and 400Nm (295 lb-ft) of torque. It is mated to a 6-speed manual enabling the vehicle to accelerate to 100 km/h in just 7.5 seconds. The top speed is electronically limited to 250 km/h (155 mph). Average fuel consumption – 8.4 liters per 100 km and 197 g/km of CO2.

    The 220PS 2.0 turbo with FWD and 6-speed manual transmission will soon be available with the intelligent fuel-saving technology – including aerodynamic underbody paneling and rolling-resistance-optimized tires.

    2012 Opel Insignia Engine - Ecotec
    2012 Opel Insignia Engine – Ecotec

    Source: Opel

  • Renault Clio Gordini – 1.6 VVT 128 and 1.5 dCi 106

    Renault has announced two new models in the line-up of Clio Gordini.

    The Gordini range starts with the 1.6 VVT 128, which is 1.6 liter four-cylinder petrol with 128PS, which is taken from Twingo Renaultsport 133, but it is slightly de-tuned. However, it offers 0 to 100 km/h in 9.3 seconds and an impressive 42.2 mpg on the combined cycle.

    Renault Clio Gordini 128 is priced at £14 000 on-the-road.

    The second new model is 1.5 dCi 106, which has 106PS 1.5 turbo-diesel engine returning up to 62.8 mpg on combined cycle and just 110g/km of C02. Still, the car is capable of doing 191 km/h (119mph ). It is also free from road fund licence and only £20 in the second year.

    Renault Clio Gordini 106 is priced at £14 950 on-the-road.

    Renault Clio Gordini boasts twin white racing stripes across the bonnet, roof and tailgate. There are also white electric folding door mirrors and front bumper strip, Gordini badges, 16” Turini alloy wheels, body colour rear spoiler and twin tailpipe exhausts.

    The interior comes with grey cloth upholstery with Gordini logo, leather Gordini steering wheel with grey detail and white stripe, Gordini satin chrome effect gearknob with blue Gordini badge and black surround with satin chrome gaiter lever.

    Standard are also 4x20W radio CD with aux input and fingertip remote controls, auto lights and wipers, climate control, cruise control, front curtain airbags and speed limiter.

    Renault Clio Gordini 128/106
    Renault Clio Gordini 128/106

    Source: Renault